Last Updated on 7 October 2024 IST | Indian Air Force Day 2024: Indian Air Force Day 2024: On October 8, 2024, Indian Air Force, one of the arms of the Indian Armed Forces, will commemorate the 92nd anniversary of the Indian Air Force (IAF), a significant occasion marked by pride, honor, and deep appreciation. Since its establishment in 1932, the IAF has evolved into a powerful entity that embodies the values of commitment, courage, and advanced technology. Read the full story to know about it in complete detail.
Air Force Day Highlights
- Every year Air Force Day is celebrated to honor the contributions of the Air force as a part of the armed forces of the nation.
- This year Air forces will be holding an air show to mark the event at marina beach, chennai.
- The practice session for the air show is scheduled to take place at Marina Beach.
- The famous aircraft Rafael will also be showcased in the air show.
- A total of 72 aircrafts will be showcased during the show on Saturday including fighter and transport helicopters. The Tejas, manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in India, will also take part in the air force airshow at Marina Beach in Chennai.
- Along with the security of the nation via air, the selfless working of the Indian Air Force at the time of natural calamities are the acts of the air force to be appreciated on this day.
- Adoption of True Spiritual Knowledge given by Supreme God Kabir is the conclusive and peaceful solution to end any sort of dispute.
About Indian Air Force (IAF)
One of the most critical and important parts of the Indian Armed forces is the Indian Air Force whose primary motive is to secure the nation’s airspace and conduct aerial activities during wars and conflicts. Also known as Bharatiya Vayu Sena, As of October 2024, the Indian Air Force (IAF) comprises approximately 1,70,576 active members and 1,40,000 reserve members. In June 2019, the IAF reported having roughly 12,140 commissioned officers, while the authorized strength was set at 12,600. This resulted in a shortfall of approximately 483 officers for that year.
World Air Powers Ranking 2024 has been released by The World Directory of Modern Military Aircraft (WDMMA). In which the Indian Air Force (IAF) has been ranked third on the World Air Power Index in terms of the total fighting Strength of various air services of different countries of the world.
History of Indian Air Force Day
Every nation celebrates its own Air Force Day. India observes its Air Force Day on October 8th every year. Establishment of this day came under British rule in 1932 as an auxiliary air force of the British Empire which was also used in World War II with the prefix of ‘royal’ to its name. However, after gaining independence and transition to republic in the year 1950, the term Royal was removed from the title of Indian Air Force.
Since 1950 Indian Air Force has been engaged in many wars including four wars with Pakistan and one war with China. Along with this the force has conducted various other operations namely Operation Vijay, Operation Meghdoot, Operation Cactus and Operation Poomalai. Along with these operations, IAF has also been engaged with the United Nations peacekeeping missions.
Key Developments
– It played an essential role during World War II, especially in the Burma Campaign.
– Following India’s independence in 1947, the IAF experienced significant growth and modernization, marked by the introduction of jet aircraft such as the Vampire and Canberra.
– The IAF has been instrumental in various military engagements, including the Indo-Pakistani wars and the Kargil War, demonstrating the valor and expertise of its personnel.
– Over time, it has embraced cutting-edge technology, integrating aircraft like the Mirage 2000, Sukhoi Su-30MKI, and HAL Tejas, with the recent acquisition of Rafale jets further bolstering its operational capabilities.
Celebrations of Indian Air Force Day 2024
This year’s celebrations are set to be more spectacular than ever before. A key feature of the event will be the grand air show taking place over Marina Beach in Chennai on October 6, 2024. This impressive display will showcase 72 aircraft, including advanced fighter jets such as the Rafale, SU-30, MIGs, Jaguar, and Tejas, as well as the renowned aerobatic teams of Surya Kiran and Sarang helicopters.
Air Show Highlights:
Rafale: This French-manufactured fighter jet has significantly enhanced the IAF’s offensive capabilities.
SU-30MKI: Recognized as the cornerstone of the IAF’s combat fleet, it is celebrated for its adaptability and firepower.
Tejas: India’s homegrown Light Combat Aircraft, representing a commitment to self-sufficiency and technological advancement.
Surya Kiran and Sarang: These aerobatic teams mesmerize spectators with their precision and audacious maneuvers.
■ Read in Hindi: Indian Air Force Day: इंडियन एयरफोर्स डे पर जानिए कौन है सृष्टि की सबसे बड़ी ताकत?
Some Facts About Indian Air Force (IAF) on Indian Air Force Day 2024
- The Indian Air Force (IAF) is ranked fourth largest operational air force globally after America, Russia and China.
- It has over 1,70,576 active personnel and 1,40,000 reserve personnel as of October 2024. It also possesses over 1850 aircrafts.
- IAF has always been more active than any other force in relief operations. It played its role in the Gujarat cyclone (1998), Tsunami (2004) and floods in Northern India. However, there is a record named after the IAF on rescuing approximately 20,000 in operation ‘Raahat’ during Uttarakhand Floods.
- The centre for celebration of Air Force Day, Hindon Air Force Station in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh is the largest airbase in entire Asia. It is also the 8th largest globally.
- IAF has also been part of major operations mentioned above and engaged with the United Nations in peacekeeping operations.
- IAF also includes women personnel in their squad which in turn promotes gender equality in the field of Air force as well. Even the Rafale team of the IAF has a woman pilot.
- The Indian Air Force has its motto as ‘Nabham Sparsham Deeptham’ which means ‘Touch the sky with glory‘ which has been taken from the eleventh chapter of Holy Bhagavad Gita .Coincidentally the revelation about the actual narrator of Holy Geeta ji has also been made in verse 32 of the eleventh chapter as well, who is Satan(Kaal Brahm) not Shri Krishan.
The Theme: Potent, Powerful, Self-Reliant
This year’s Indian Air Force Day theme is “Bhartiya Vayu Sena – Saksham, Sashakt, Atmanirbhar” which translates to “Indian Air Force – Potent, Powerful, Self-Reliant” which underscores the IAF’s dedication to preserving its superiority through strength, capability, and self-sufficiency. The emphasis on “AtamNirbhar Bharat” (Self-Reliant India) is clearly reflected in the growing dependence on homegrown technology and equipment.
- Indigenous Projects: The HAL Tejas, Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), and the Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) exemplify India’s advancing defense manufacturing prowess.
- Strategic Partnerships: Collaborations with international defense manufacturers and continuous enhancements to existing platforms ensure that the IAF remains at the forefront of technological advancements.
- Human Resource Excellence: The true strength of the IAF is not solely in its machinery but also in the expertise, commitment, and valor of its personnel. Comprehensive training programs and an emphasis on both mental and physical fitness guarantee that IAF members are perpetually prepared for missions.
IAF Rank Structure and Aircraft Inventory
Marshal of The Indian Air Force is the highest rank in IAF which is being granted to the President of India after exceptional service during wars. The only person to achieve this rank is MIAF Arjan Singh,DFC.
The Air force rankings are divided into officer’s ranks also known as commissioned officers and personnel below officer ranks.
Officer’s ranks:-
Chief of the Air Force is the head of the Indian Air Force holding the rank of Air Chief Marshal. Current chief of the Air force is Air chief marshal Amarpreet singh AVSM, PVSM. Further it is followed by Air Marshal, Air Vice Marshal, Air Commodore, Group Captain, Wing Commander, Squadron Leader, Flight Lieutenant and Flying Officer.
- Air chief marshal
- Air marshal
- Air vice marshal
- Air commodore
- Group captain
- Wing commander
- Squadron leader
- Flight lieutenant
- Flying officer
Personnel below officer rankings:-
In the Indian Air Force, personnel below officer rank (PBOR) include Junior Commissioned Officers (JCOs) and Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs). The ranks within these groups are as follows:
Junior Commissioned Officers (JCOs):
– Master Warrant Officer
– Warrant Officer
– Junior Warrant Officer
Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs):
– Sergeant
– Corporal
– Leading Aircraftman
– Aircraftman
These ranks form the fundamental structure of the IAF, playing crucial roles in both operational readiness and daily functions. Each rank has distinct responsibilities and duties that contribute to the smooth and effective operation of the force.
■ Also Read: Indian Navy Is The World’s 7th Largest Navy: Know All About Indian Navy Day
The aircraft inventory of India includes aircraft from Russia, Britain, France, Israel, America and India origin with Russia being the major of them in number. However the exact number of aircrafts and equipment with IAF cannot be determined with available open sources.
But there are estimates taken out internationally which reveals its counting to be around 1850 with over 900 combat capable aircrafts available. Some of the major names from the inventory are Dassault Rafale, Sukhoi Su-30MKI, Mikoyan MiG-29, Dassault Mirage 2000, HAL Tejas, SEPECAT Jaguar, Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-21. It also includes the recent addition of a Light Combat Helicopter(LCH) Prachand.
Recruitment avenues for officers and personnel below officer rank in the Indian Air Force
Officers entry:-
National Defence Academy (NDA):
Eligibility: Candidates must have completed 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics and must be unmarried males.
Selection Process: Candidates are required to pass the NDA examination, followed by an SSB interview.
Combined Defence Services Examination (CDSE):
Eligibility: Candidates must hold a graduate degree in any discipline, with Physics and Mathematics at the 10+2 level or possess a Bachelor of Engineering degree.
Selection Process: Candidates must successfully complete the CDSE examination, followed by an SSB interview.
Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT):
Eligibility: Candidates must have a graduate degree in any discipline, with Physics and Mathematics at the 10+2 level or possess a Bachelor of Engineering degree.
Selection Process: Candidates are required to pass the AFCAT examination, followed by an SSB interview.
NCC Special Entry:
Eligibility: Graduates must have achieved a minimum of ‘B’ Grade in the ‘C’ Certificate examination of the NCC Air Wing Senior Division.
Selection Process: Candidates will undergo a direct SSB interview.
Personnel below officer ranking
Agniveer Vayu (Technical):
Eligibility Criteria: Candidates must have completed 10+2 with a focus on Mathematics, Physics, and English, achieving a minimum of 50% marks, or possess a three-year Diploma in Engineering.
Selection Process: The selection will involve a written examination, an Adaptability Test, a Physical Fitness Test, and a Medical Examination.
Agniveer vayu (Non-Technical):
Eligibility Criteria: Completion of 10+2 in any discipline with a minimum of 50% marks.
Selection Process: Candidates will undergo a written examination, an adaptability assessment, a physical fitness evaluation, and a medical examination.
Agniveer vayu (Sports)
The Indian Air Force (IAF) is seeking applications from unmarried male candidates of Indian nationality for this program, which offers a chance to engage in a military lifestyle for a duration of four years.
True Spiritual Knowledge Is the Only Way Out to Any Dispute
Everyone knows and some of us have witnessed the development of technology in front of our eyes in the past 60-70 years which is considered to be a treat for the eyes. But rather to our surprise we have misused this gift of technology by Supreme God Kabir for our destruction by making explosives and war material with the name of protection. It is the need of the hour for us to understand that war cannot give us anything. Indulging ourselves in wars is an act of Satan (Kaal Brahm) performed through us for destruction. And, without the awareness of True Spiritual Knowledge one cannot understand this.
Currently on the entire globe only Saint Rampal Ji Maharaj is the Complete Saint Who is giving everyone with the conclusive True Spiritual Knowledge as given by Supreme God Kabir 600 years ago that contains the gist of all Holy Scriptures and the Way of Living to be adopted for the rest of life. For more knowledge on this do watch Spiritual Sermons of Saint Rampal Ji Maharaj on His youtube channel Sant Rampal Ji Maharaj or you can read His book Gyan Ganga- The River of Knowledge.
FAQ About Indian Air Force Day 2024
Answer: 8 October 1932.
Answer: Sir Thomas Walker Elmhirst
Answer: Air Marshal Subroto Mukerjee.
Answer: Padmavati Bandopadhayay
Answer: A total of 60 Air bases ( Air Stations) are present with the air force.
Answer: नभ:स्पृशं दीप्तम or Touch the sky with glory.
Answer: Royal Indian Air Force was the name of the air force. However the word royal was removed in 1950 when India became a republic.
Answer: Chennai’s Marina beach.
Answer: Avani Chaturvedi, Bhawana Kanth, and Mohana Singh are notable individuals.
